WMATA's Catoe stepping down after three years

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority General Manager John Catoe says he plans to retire April 2, following three years heading WMATA, a span that included several high-profile safety-related incidents.

“I have decided that it is time for me to channel my future in new directions and provide this organization an opportunity to move beyond the current distractions,” Catoe said. “Good leaders know how to impact change. Great leaders know when it’s time for leadership change. I hope I fall into the latter category.”

Said WMATA Board Chairman Jim Graham, “We appreciate his stewardship during this difficult time and we will miss his leadership. While we regret his decision, he continues to have the full confidence of the Board of Directors.” Graham said a search for a successor would begin promptly.